Launch Pad Systems Engineer II

Rocket Lab USA; Wallops Island (VA); On-site; USD 88,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab USA is seeking a Ground Systems Engineer II – Structures and Mechanisms to design, test, and commission large launch pad structures and mechanisms for the Neutron program. You will model with NX, analyze systems, and develop test plans.

You will collaborate with suppliers and internal teams, perform FMEAs and risk assessments, and support technicians during installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting.

Qualifications

• ABET-accredited Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
• 2+ years of experience in design, testing, or operations in aerospace/industrial sectors.
• Experience in the design of large structures and mechanisms.
• Proficiency in CAD software (NX, SolidWorks).

Responsibilities

• Design launch pad and test site fixed assets including test stands, launch mounts, and gantries.
• Design launch vehicle support equipment including transportation fixtures, lifting apparatuses, and breakover fixtures.
• Design large mechanisms including umbilicals, hold downs, and strongbacks.
• 2D and 3D modelling using NX.
• System sizing and analysis by hand calculation and numerical methods.
• Produce risk assessments, system hazard analyses, and FMEAs.
• Component selection, development, and maintenance of BOMs.
• Interact with suppliers and internal teams.
• Perform failure investigations and root-cause analysis.
• Support maintenance program development.
• Collaborate with test and operations team to ensure systems are fully functional.
• Support pad technicians remotely and in person during installation, commissioning, testing, and troubleshooting activities.
• Develop and execute test plans to validate the performance of launch pad systems and vehicle interfaces.
• Design, develop and maintain test equipment.

Skills

NX CAD

SolidWorks

Mechanical design

FMEA

Education

ABET-accredited Bachelor’s in Mechanical Eng

Tools

RISA

ANSYS

GFSSP

AFT

Thermal Desktop

Job description

Rocket Lab USA is seeking a Ground Systems Engineer II – Structures and Mechanisms to design, test, and commission large launch pad structures and mechanisms for the Neutron program. You will model with NX, analyze systems, and develop test plans.

You will collaborate with suppliers and internal teams, perform FMEAs and risk assessments, and support technicians during installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting.